Cash boost for Welsh waste sector

Companies setting up anaerobic digestion facilities to treat waste in Wales could be eligible for Government support to cover up to 30% of their capital costs.

In a drive to reduce the amount of biodegradable waste sent to landfill and encourage the development of the technology and facilities in Wales, the Welsh Assembly Government's Materials Action Programme (MAP) is offering the funding to ease the costs of land, plant, equipment of infrastructure.

There is no restriction on the size of organisation that can apply, providing the application for funding involves a capital investment to create a new AD facility or expand one that is already up and running.

The focus of the funding is on increasing capacity rather than developing the technology, so applicants must use proven equipment that is in commercial operation elsewhere.

The aim of the programme is to channel biodegradable waste, particularly that from commercial sources such as food manufacturing and the catering industry, away from landfill.

In order to meet MAP's criteria, the input material must be source-segregated biodegradable waste, with at least 60% derived from commercial and industrial sources.

The facility must be located in Wales and capable of being installed and operational by 31 March 2009.

Applicants must also be able to demonstrate that the project's success is dependent on MAP funding and that it is a viable commercial proposition in the medium to long term.

Each application will be assessed for overall value for money, financial robustness, quality of design, arrangements for sourcing input material and ability to deliver and environmental commitment/impact.

The deadline for applications is Monday 30 July 2007. Full details are available on the WRAP website.